Let’s say you order or buy something from another nation, and it gets to you on time. But have you ever stopped to think about how that product of yours got to you, like did it fly there, or the seller shipped it in an actual ship? Well, the second option is mostly the case. You see, there are literally dozens of shipping companies out there that transport goods on a daily basis on thousands of routes, connecting different nations. And today, we are here to talk about the top 10 biggest shipping companies in the world as of 2024. Alright, here we go.
1. MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)
Unbelievably, MSC, the biggest container transport firm in the world, began in 1970 with just one ship. Did you already know that? And as of now, with a fleet of about 801 ships and an astounding TEU capacity of about 5.7 million, MSC practically rules the shipping world. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC has had an incredible growth trajectory. Its vast worldwide network of more than 675 offices backs its strong operational approach, which depends on affordable prices and quick delivery times, you know?
2. APM-Maersk
Second on the list and established way back in 1904, the name APM-Maersk is now a byword for quality in shipping and has grown to be a pretty well-known name in the global container shipping industry. But why? Well, with a roughly 4.1 million TEU capacity, Maersk runs about 685 ships as of 2024. Celebrated for its extensive worldwide network and dedication to sustainability, this Danish giant propels the development of environmentally friendly technology. And yes, we know, it might sound cliche but Maersk’s strategic emphasis on efficiency and long history of invention have solidified its place as the industry leader.
3. CMA CGM
With a roughly 3.5 million TEU capacity, France’s CMA CGM is a significant player in the container transport industry and currently stands as the 3rd biggest shipping company in the entire world. Having been founded in 1978, the company now operates more than 600 vessels (634 to be precise) and services more than 150 international routes. Sure, from the get-go, reliability, and economy are well-known features of CMA CGM, which also strongly promotes sustainability and digital transformation.
4. COSCO Shipping Lines
Founded in 1961 and having its headquarters in China, COSCO Shipping Lines is one of the biggest state-owned shipping companies with a TEU capacity of about 3.1 million, which is pretty insane if you look at how late this company was established. Managing about 491 vessels, COSCO is present in more than 100 countries right now. All in all, you know, what these companies say in their motto: a key participant in the international shipping scene, COSCO is driven by its strategic expansion and operational effectiveness.
5. Hapag-Lloyd
Hamburg-Amerikanische Packetfahrt-Aktien-Gesellschaft (Hapag) and Norddeutscher Lloyd merged to become the massive German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd in 1970. 2 million TEU capacity and 274 ships in its fleet allow Hapag-Lloyd to conduct business in over 120 countries. The organization is clearly committed to sustainability and innovation by implementing cutting-edge technology and environmentally friendly procedures. Simply put though, the wide network and customer-focused strategy of Hapag-Lloyd guarantee its solid position in the international market.
6. ONE (Ocean Network Express)
Then there is Ocean Network Express (ONE), which was founded in 2017 by the union of three massive Japanese companies, NYK Line, MOL, and K-Line, which has quickly risen to fame in the international shipping industry, and that’s quite remarkable if you think about it for a sec. With a TEU capacity of about 1.8 million, ONE plans to have 232 ships in its fleet by 2024. Now with operations in 42 countries, its vast network reaches over 120 countries. All in all, ONE sets a new benchmark in the transportation sector by incorporating eco-friendly technologies to reduce environmental effects, which goes beyond size.
7. Evergreen Marine Corporation
From its founding in 1968, Taipei, Taiwan-based Evergreen Marine Corporation has led the way ever since. Having a fleet of more than 212 ships and a staggering TEU capacity of almost 1.6 million, Evergreen has an impact on more than 400 ports worldwide. Again, it is pretty cliche, but we must say, recognized for its innovative spirit, Evergreen keeps up to date by implementing state-of-the-art technology, such as the enormous Ever Ace. Leading the shipping business in terms of innovation and upholding a large, efficient network globally, the company has been firmly established by its dedication to dependability and operational effectiveness.
8. HMM (Hyundai Merchant Marine)
Founded in 1976, Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM) of South Korea is well known for its strategic and technical innovations within this very shipping industry. Operating 78 ships with a TEU capacity of almost 797,327, HMM is notable for deploying some of the biggest and most sophisticated container ships in the world. Its usage of environmentally friendly technology makes clear how committed it is to sustainability. Providing dependable and all-inclusive services along important trade routes, HMM’s wide coverage of more than 110 countries guarantees its continued importance in global logistics.
9. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation
The Keelung, Taiwan-based Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation was established in 1972 and has since expanded to become a major player in container shipping. Operating throughout Asia, Europe, America, and Australia, Yang Ming has a fleet of 94 ships with a TEU capacity of about 708,000. As seen by its recent creation of new subsidiaries and deployment of cutting-edge ships, the corporation places a high priority on network expansion and operating efficiency.
10. ZIM Integrated Shipping Services
Last on the list, we have ZIM Integrated Shipping Services, yes, all the way from Israel, which was founded way back in 1945. Currently, this very shipping company has about 128 ships to perform the container shipping thing for their customers and clients across several nations in the world. The total TEU capacity of ZIM is around 655,751, which is pretty respectable if you think about it. And that’s precisely what has landed this company on this list today. And yes, with a worldwide network spanning several routes, ZIM’s commitment to sustainability and technology improvements maintains its standing as a dependable and forward-thinking shipping company.
Conclusion
That’s all for now. These are by far the biggest shipping companies that are practically the top players in their shipping game. And for a while, you’d likely see only these 10 performing super well in the future.
Brandon is the cheif editor and writer at WorldUnfolds.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen editorial eye, he crafts engaging content that captivates and enlightens readers worldwide.
